What are the advantages and drawbacks of hardwood floors over other flooring?

Hardwood floors have a deeply instinctive appeal. They convey feelings of warmth, solidity, quality, authenticity, and permanence, and add to the investment value of your home. Beki Willis has been repairing,

restoring and remodeling homes in the greater Austin area since 1989. She says, "I love to remodel old houses, and there is certain richness to hardwood floors. Nothing else looks the same or feels the same." Besides having a look and feel that can never truly be replicated by synthetic floors, hardwood floors can easily last over 100 years. Beki tells us, "Hardwood gives with the house, better than a lot of products do." Hardwood floors never go out of style. There are so many varieties of wood available these days, in different grains and colors, that there is really no end to the type of décor that can be complimented with hardwood flooring. There are over 50 species of wood used for flooring today which naturally come in all colors, or can be stained to any color choice. Wood floors do not have to be plain. Inlaid borders, medallions, starbursts and other decorative additions are available hand carved or as pre-cut wood tiles. Wood floors can be finished on site after they are installed, or they can be pre-finished. A pre-finished floor requires less maintenance. Wear and tear can actually add character to a wood floor. With other types of flooring it would simply amount to damage. Wood flooring is a wonderful option for people with allergies, asthma and chemical sensitivities. Other types of flooring can collect dust and other allergens, and off-gas chemicals in the flooring itself.

The biggest drawback to hardwood flooring is the initial expense. While this cost is offset by the longevity of the flooring, it can be prohibitive to some home owners. Hardwood floors also require some special maintenance. Beki tells us, "You can't mop them." Harwood floors should be swept or vacuumed with a brush, not a beater bar. When spills or accidents happen that cannot be cleaned by sweeping or vacuuming a damp mop can be used with ph-balanced cleaners specially formulated for wood floors. They must be kept free from grit and dirt which will quickly wear the finish, "Wood floors scratch more than other surfaces, but they are really pretty good," says Beki. When hardwood floors are scratched they can be sanded and refinished, but if they absorb a stain it can soak in deep enough to be permanent and irreparable. Wood floors that get wet frequently can warp, so they are not the best option in bathrooms or utility rooms. With the right finish, and for those who are willing to quickly clean up any spills and repair any leaks, they can be nice in the kitchen. High traffic areas, such as doorways, should be covered with rugs for added protection. Children and pets can be especially hard on wood floors. Using rugs in play areas and keeping pet's nails trimmed can reduce their impact. Of course, wood flooring is noisier than many other flooring options.